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Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, Urine — Qualitative Immunoelectrophoresis

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A qualitative urine test that checks for the presence of alpha-1 antitrypsin using immunoelectrophoresis.

Quick summary

["This test reports whether alpha-1 antitrypsin is detectable in your urine."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
40602-5
Short code
A1AT Ur Ql IEP
Synonyms
A1AT Ur Ql IEP
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
immunoelectrophoresis
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Alpha-1 antitrypsin is a protein made by the liver. This qualitative urine test checks whether the protein can be detected in a urine sample.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test as part of an evaluation of alpha-1 antitrypsin levels or related health concerns. It may also be used to help interpret a serum test or investigate unusual urinary protein findings.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed by immunoelectrophoresis. The result reports whether alpha-1 antitrypsin is detected rather than providing a measured concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's or laboratory's collection instructions, including any clean-catch or timed-collection requirements. No fasting is usually required, but ask the laboratory if you have questions about your specific test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine alpha-1 antitrypsin

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as the alpha-1 antitrypsin blood test?
No. This test examines urine, while the more common blood test measures circulating alpha-1 antitrypsin levels or protein variants.
Does this test provide a numeric result?
No. It is a qualitative test, so the laboratory reports whether alpha-1 antitrypsin is detected.
What if my result is not detected?
A not-detected result does not by itself establish a specific condition. Your clinician may compare it with blood tests, urine collection details, and other findings before interpreting it.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy